About Rohan: Rohan Yogi is a computer engineer from Pune, India with a passion for technology, problem-solving, and product strategy. After five years of working as a software developer, he realized his interest extended beyond building solutions—he wanted to shape product strategy and drive user-centric innovation. As an MBA candidate at UCLA Anderson, he is leveraging his technical background and strategic mindset to transition into product management, with a goal of driving innovation in the tech industry. He has always been an avid follower of Basketball and LeBron James. Now that Rohan is in LA, a hub for several major sports, he looks forward to further immersing himself in American sports culture!

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One of the defining strengths of the UCLA Anderson MBA program is its commitment to collaboration and diversity, both embodied in its learning teams. These teams, composed of 5-6 members from different backgrounds, are not just study groups—they are foundational to the learning experience. As first-year MBA students navigate rigorous coursework and complex challenges, the learning team structure ensures no one goes through it alone. It fosters an environment where shared knowledge, mutual support, and diverse perspectives drive success.

At the heart of the Anderson MBA is the first-year core curriculum, covering finance, strategy, marketing, and operations. Many of these subjects require analytical skills that may come naturally to some but could be challenging for others. This is where learning teams become invaluable. Each student brings a unique skill set and perspective, allowing team members to support one another through assignments and projects. For instance, a software engineer might take the lead in explaining data regression in Data and Decisions, while a former consultant provides insights in Business Strategy. The rotating leadership ensures that each member steps up to teach and guide others, reinforcing their own understanding while helping peers. This not only enhances subject mastery but also mirrors real-world business environments, where cross-functional teams collaborate to solve problems.

Additionally, learning teams play a crucial role during recruitment season, one of the most demanding times in the MBA journey. When a team member is preparing for an important interview, take-home case, or networking event, the rest of the team steps up to share the workload, ensuring that assignments, group projects, and responsibilities are managed effectively. This culture of mutual support and empathy reflects Anderson’s ethos of shared success, where students help each other thrive rather than compete. This dynamic not only alleviates stress but also strengthens bonds among teammates. Learning teams foster a sense of trust and camaraderie, where students know they can rely on one another—not just academically, but professionally and personally. These experiences shape stronger, more resilient leaders, who understand the importance of collaboration in high-pressure environments, a crucial skill in any workplace

Furthermore, learning teams at Anderson are more than academic support groups; they evolve into personal and professional support systems. One of my personal highlights with my learning team has been our off-campus lunch outings, where we get to know each other beyond coursework and deadlines. These moments have strengthened our friendships and helped us understand each other on a deeper level, making collaboration even more seamless.
Recently, my learning team achieved something remarkable—we stood first in a Management Operations core simulation exercise, which required a week-long strategy and execution effort. Every member stepped up at different points, ensuring timely decisions and holistic execution. The experience reinforced not just our ability to problem-solve under pressure but also the trust and synergy we have built as a team.

Looking back, learning teams at Anderson are more than just an academic structure; they are a foundation for shared success, lifelong friendships, and moments of triumph—both big and small.

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Student Blogger: Rohan Yogi ’26

Undergrad: College of Engineering, Pune ’19 (India)

Pre-MBA: Software Engineering at Credit Suisse India

Leadership@Anderson: Director of International Student Outreach, Admissions Ambassador Corps; Director of FEMBA Relations, Tennis Club at Anderson

LinkedIn: LinkedIn